Great Adventures Reef and Green Island Cruises

Last updated February 2026

Great Adventures operates reef and island cruises departing from Cairns, offering day trips to the Great Barrier Reef and Green Island. The company's terminal is located at Reef Fleet Terminal on Spence Street in the heart of Cairns City. Their cruises combine snorkeling or diving opportunities at reef pontoons with visits to Green Island, a coral cay surrounded by pristine reef. The experience includes glass-bottom boat tours, underwater observatory access, and marine biologist presentations. Most cruises run for a full day, typically 8-9 hours including travel time. **What to Bring** Sunscreen, hat, swimwear, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, underwater camera, seasickness tablets if prone to motion sickness, light jacket for air-conditioned boat areas. **Best Age Range** Best for ages 8 and up due to the full-day duration and ocean conditions. Younger children may struggle with the long boat journey and choppy waters, though calm weather days can work for ages 5-7 with patient parents. **Good to Know** Advanced bookings essential, especially during peak season May to October. Free shuttle service available from most Cairns accommodation. All meals and snorkeling equipment included in cruise packages. Weather dependent - tours may be cancelled in rough conditions. **Nearby** Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is a 2-minute walk for a post-cruise swim and picnic. Cairns Aquarium on the Esplanade showcases local marine life and makes a good backup activity if weather cancels reef trips. **Tips From Other Parents** Book morning pickups early - the shuttle can run late during busy periods. Pack seasickness tablets even if kids don't usually get carsick, as reef waters can be choppy. Bring a dry bag for phones and cameras as spray is common on the boat ride out.